By: Nanju Francisco
Photos by: Von Francisco
Manama: The Embassy of the Philippines in Bahrain, in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA), proudly presented a captivating “Talk and Demonstration by the Tagolwanen Women Weavers” at the Darseen Café, nestled within the iconic Bahrain National Museum. This extraordinary event, an initiative of the Philippine Embassy and part of Bahrain’s “Spring of Culture Festival 2025,” was held on February 23, from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
The Embassy, in its commitment to promoting the rich Filipino culture, invited three distinguished members of the Tagolwanen Women Weavers Association Inc. from Malaybalay, Bukidnon, Philippines, to Manama. These remarkable women, Lorielinda Bella Rago-Marte, Eva P. Balahay, and Mylene P. Salihay, participated in a series of activities during the “Spring of Culture Festival”, which was held from February 22 to 27, 2025.
The event commenced with a warm welcome speech by the Philippine Ambassador to Bahrain, H.E. Anne Jalando-on Louis. In her speech, she highlighted the importance of preserving cultural traditions and promoting cultural exchange between nations.
An insightful talk by Lorielinda Bella Rago-Marte, the founder of the Tagolwanen Women Weavers Association (TWWA) followed the ambassador’s speech. Lorielinda shared the inspiring history of the TWWA, which she established in 2012 with her husband, Anilaw Marte.
The discussion highlighted the revival of the disappearing mat-making tradition, the regained cultural pride of the indigenous people, and the increased appreciation for their unique identity and products. The Bukidnon-Tagolwanen tribe was introduced to the Philippines and the world, strengthening the principles of kinship among indigenous people.
The Tagolwanen Women Weavers also emphasized their commitment to preserving the environment. Their mat-making practices provide a sustainable livelihood for families, focusing on sodsod grass harvesting and mat-weaving instead of deforestation. The TWWA products are reusable and biodegradable, with minimal carbon footprints in production.
The association holds capacity-building programs for its members, including skills training and sodsod grass propagation. The success of these initiatives is evident in the fact that many weavers’ children have completed college through weaving.
The Tagolwanen Women Weavers’ participation in Bahrain’s Spring of Culture Festival not only showcased their exceptional craftsmanship but also highlighted their dedication to preserving their cultural heritage and protecting the environment. Their story is a testament to the power of Indigenous culture and the importance of empowering women in local communities.
Vice Consul Laser Blitz Sumagaysay was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.
About the Tagolwanen Women Weavers
The Tagolwanen Women Weavers Association Inc. is a community-based organization in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, Philippines. Their mission is to preserve the traditional mat-weaving practices of the Tagolwanen tribe, promote their cultural heritage, and provide sustainable livelihoods for their members.
